Neymar revealed he was “very close” to joining Fluminense from Santos in order to play in the Club World Cup.
The Brazil superstar, 33, rejoined his boyhood club in January 2025 after a disastrous spell with Al-Hilal, who are also playing the tournament in the United States.
Neymar endured an injury-hit time in Saudi Arabia, which prompted his return to Brazil having also enjoyed stints with European powerhouses Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain.
Speaking on the Flow Podcast, Neymar stated how talks were held over another move but he opted to remain loyal to Santos having suffered with a hamstring injury in April and May.
“I’m in good physical shape. We had these conversations with some teams to play in the [Club] World Cup, Fluminense was something that came very close to happening,” he said.
“But I preferred to stay to train a little more. I’m 100 per cent physically, but I need to get better to be able to come back in good shape.”
Wrapping up the first round of group stage #FIFACWC action. pic.twitter.com/3toOkrjo0z
— FIFA Club World Cup (@FIFACWC) June 18, 2025